Car - Guide to finding the right car battery

Car - Guide to finding the right car battery

The easiest way to find the right battery is using our Yuasa Battery Finder. However, here are some extra steps to verify you are making the right choice:

Step 1: Check Your Owner's Manual - The Definitive Source

Your car's owner's manual is the most accurate and reliable source for battery information. Don't skip this step if you have access to it!

Step 2: Look at Your Current Battery

If you don't have your owner's manual, you can look at your current battery. Most batteries have a label that indicates the group size and CCA. Make sure to note these details down.

What to Look For:

  • Battery Group Size: This is a crucial physical dimension that ensures the battery fits securely in your car's battery tray and that the terminals are in the correct position relative to your cables. Common group sizes include 24, 24F, 34, 35, 51, 51R, 58, 65, 75, and 78.
    With Yuasa this forms part of the part number, for example: the last 3 digits of YBX9096 is Battery Group 096. The first digit is the product range (e.g. YBX 9000 series).

  • Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): This rating indicates the battery's ability to start your engine in cold temperatures. It's the number of amps a 12-volt battery can deliver at 0°F (-18°C) for 30 seconds while maintaining at least 7.2 volts. Higher CCA is generally better, especially in colder climates.

  • Voltage: Most modern car batteries are 12-volt.

  • Terminal Location and Type: Confirm if your battery has top posts, side posts, or a combination, and where they are located.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Guessing: Never assume you know the correct specifications. Always verify them.

  • Ignoring Group Size: Buying a battery with the wrong group size can lead to it not fitting, or the terminals being too far from your car's cables.

  • Overlooking CCA for Climate: If you live in a cold region, under-specifying CCA can lead to starting problems in winter.